When rodents invade, they can create all kinds of problems. They chew building materials, leave droppings and urine everywhere, spread harmful bacteria, introduce fleas, ticks, and other parasites, and make noises in our walls–just to name a few. If you’d prefer to not have mice, rats, and other rodents getting into your home, here are a few things you can alter that might keep those rodents away.

Trash

We all know that trash is an attractant for pests and that we need to keep trash bags in receptacles with a tight lid, but do you know that keeping your trash receptacles clean is important too? Smells are attractive to rodents and other pests. It means the promise of food. And rodents will come running.

Piles

All rodents love a good pile. It doesn’t really matter what it is. Some use those piles to find a safe place to hide as they search for food. Some burrow under piles and establish themselves. If you have piles in your yard, your yard is going to be more interesting to rodents of all shapes and sizes.

Food

Homes that have an indoor/outdoor kitchen, or just an outdoor eating area, can sometimes have food left out. These can draw rodents in close. Make sure to keep food in sealed plastic containers and clean up when you’re done cooking.

Standing Water

When it rains, the water runs down your roof, into your gutter system, and down and away from your home. At least that is how it is supposed to work. If it doesn’t, pools of water can form near your home. These pools will make your foundation perimeter interesting to rodents. Fix broken or obstructed gutters to make your yard less attractive.

Holes

A mouse can fit through a hole the size of a nickel and a rat can fit through a hole the size of a quarter. If you have small holes, you can expect to have rodents in your home. Do a detailed inspection and seal any holes you find.

What To Do When Rodents Invade

It is extremely difficult to solve rodent problems without specific training in rodent control protocols. These are sneaky pests. After you’ve spent a lot of money and a lot of time, you can still see signs of rodent infestation in your home. The best solution is to hire a pest control professional. If you need assistance with rodent control in Arizona, give Schendel Pest Service a call today!